Your 2010 UFA/RFA Rumor Chart Update
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Anyone else notice that since the Marleau signing everything sort of died off a bit?
This is the typical calm before the storm and it's nothing new.
On the eve of last year's draft we had the same sort of night. The difference this year is interesting. We are out west and three hours behind the media centers in the Northeast. But I just saw a GM and some NHL people eating dinner at a restaurant in this hotel...I get a feeling we may still have news tonight..
I also have learned how teams plug leaks right before they go all in...and how no answer from a source can be the most telling answer of all.
I have been invited to countless draft parties, but I simply have decided to hang out here and put together this blog from all of my notes today.
Here is the absolute latest
According to sources....
* The Volchenkov sweeps have officially passed the Penguins threshold. (Don't completely rule Ottawa out. I know what has been said...) Also the Canadiens could move a "significant player" to make room.
*The Penguins are once again talking to Gonchar...however, they are also in on Kaberle and may be leaking Gonchar stuff so that the Leafs know they can do without. There is a ton of that kind of stuff happening tonight. The Pens are also looking into some mid-range d-men... defensive shot blockers..
* The Blue Jackets, Canadiens, Wild and Flames are in on the Stephen Weiss sweeps. (adding him to the Chart Update in the early morning) He has been a hot commodity today.
* Brent Burns is the top name the Montreal Canadiens are after. It's funny, 48 hours ago I thought there was no way in the world Burns would be moved. Now I am hearing his name connected to Montreal and Florida.
* Tomorrow looks like the day the Flyers will get their goalie. Either by trade for rights or straight out trade. All roads look to be pointing towards Tim Thomas or Chris Mason.
* The Bruins remain a HIGHLY rumored team tonight. They are after Columbus 4th overall..Savard and Wheeler are possible.
* The Oilers and Leafs have had several talks..but there is no way the Oilers move their number 1 I am told.
* The Hurricanes and Predators are talking a deal that could potentially "reshape each team for the next few years."
* The Devils are entertaining offers for Kovalchuk's rights.. The issue is the Kings seem the be the only team in the running for the most part, and the Kings know this so why trade for his rights if you know he wants to go there.
* Kaberle talks have intensified, but Brian Burke is sticking to his guns her on getting back "something that can help the Leafs win in 2010-2011. It is starting to pay off big time.
* Many teams are willing to take Jeff Carter off the Flyers hands. (possibly including the Leafs) The Flyers, I am told, are asking for a legit #1 goalie in return. It could happen tomorrow as the draft gets underway.
* There are Lecavalier talks again. They aren't nearly where they were last year and I don't have specifics except to say what a source told me this afternoon, "The Rangers know what it takes and are strongly considering it."
* If Quick or Bernier are to stick around tomorrow varies greatly depending on who you talk to. The Kings are saying no one is moving, but murmurs from other teams paint a vastly differing picture.
*Spezza is another one. There is a deal the Oilers can make. They are waiting to see. I wouldn't expect Spezza to heat up too much at the draft...but by Wednesday it will start to feel like it did last year going into July 1 with Heatley.
* I would watch the Islanders VERY closely tomorrow and Saturday. Word is they are looking for a sniper and may open the checkbook. Frolov is possible. Also Brad Richards.
* Though is continues to fly under the radar, "Alexander Semin" is said to be on Vancouver's radar. The Flames have also kicked tires. I wouldnt say the Caps are shopping Semin...but I never write players are being shopped.
* According to Pierre Lebrun, Turco could be the next starter for the Sharks. I love Turco as a person and think he would be an excellent backup for the Sabres or Capitals...but to put a guy whose rep has been not accomplishing in the playoffs as the goalie for the San Jose Sharks takes some serious....
See ya all in a few short hours...(or if my phone text messages go off) I will be here all night.
Sleep well!
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